Emerging Contaminant PFAS Found in Southeast Michigan

PFAS drinking water contamination has been discovered in New Baltimore, Mount Clemens and Ira Township, Mich.

Contaminated drinking water has been found in the Michigan communities of New Baltimore, Mount Clemens and Ira Township. The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) found emerging contaminants perfluroalkyl and polyfluoralkyl substances (PFAS) at less than 10 ppt, while the U.S. EPA health advisory level is 70 ppt. Officials believe the contamination is coming from Lake St. Clair, a water body near the Selfridge Air National Guard Base, which has been testing positive for PFAS contamination related to past use of AFFF fire fighting foam, according the MLive.

Officials believe the emerging contaminant PFAS contamination is low enough to be of little concern. MDEQ notified the public of the drinking water contamination March 2, but assured the public it was not a concern at this point.

“I want to assure the residents of the city that their water is safe to drink and that a boil water advisory has not been issued as there is no need,” said New Baltimore Mayor John Dupray in a statement March 9.